HP / Agilent 3324A Synthesized Function/Sweep Generator

The HP/Agilent 3324A is a synthesized function and sweep generator delivering precise waveform synthesis across audio through RF bands. It generates sine, square, triangle, ramp, DC, and TTL clock signals with frequency resolution to 1 mHz and accuracy of ±5 ppm. The instrument excels in broadband sweep applications, supporting linear, logarithmic, and multi-interval modes with up to 100 intervals in user-defined sequences. Phase-continuous sweeping across the full frequency range ensures clean transitions for characterization and testing tasks. Sine waveforms reach 21 MHz with exceptional spectral purity at -50 dBc phase noise and -55 dBc spurious content. Amplitude control spans 1 mV to 10 V peak-to-peak into 50Ω loads, with optional high-voltage output extending to 40 V peak-to-peak into 500Ω loads to 1 MHz. The 50Ω output impedance and floating capability to 40 V support flexible test configurations. An optional high-stability frequency reference achieves 0.05 ppm/week drift after stabilization, meeting precision calibration and long-duration measurement requirements.

## Technical Specifications

• **Frequency Range (Sine):** 1 mHz to 21 MHz
• **Frequency Range (Square):** 1 mHz to 11 MHz
• **Frequency Range (Triangle/Ramp):** 1 mHz to 11 kHz
• **Frequency Resolution:** 1 mHz (9-digit display)
• **Frequency Accuracy:** ±5 ppm at 20–30°C (at calibration)
• **Frequency Stability:** ±5 ppm/year (standard); 0.05 ppm/week (Option 001, after 72 h)
• **Amplitude Range:** 1 mV to 10 V peak-to-peak into 50Ω; up to 40 V into 500Ω (Option 002, to 1 MHz)
• **Amplitude Accuracy:** ±2% at 2 kHz
• **Amplitude Flatness:** ±10% relative to programmed value
• **DC Offset Range:** ±4× instrument standard range
• **Output Impedance:** 50Ω ±10% (DC–10 kHz); <3Ω DC; <10Ω at 1 MHz
• **Output Floating:** ±40 V (42 V peak AC+DC maximum)
• **Sine Spectral Purity:** -50 dBc phase noise; -55 dBc spurious
• **Triangle/Ramp Linearity:** 0.05% of full peak-to-peak
• **Ramp Retrace Time:** 3 ps (90%–10%, 50Ω/500 pF load)
• **Square Wave Overshoot:** 10% peak-to-peak (50Ω/500 pF load)
• **Sweep Modes:** Linear (10 ms–100 s); Logarithmic (100 ms–1000 s); Multi-Interval (up to 100 intervals)
• **Minimum Sweep Width:** 1 decade
• **Phase Offset:** ±719.9° adjustable

## Key Features

• Nine-digit frequency display for precise readout and verification
• Phase-continuous sweeping eliminates glitches during frequency transitions
• Multi-interval sweep sequences enable complex, application-specific test profiles
• TTL clock output for digital synchronization
• GPIB interface with floating capability for isolated test setups

## Typical Applications

• Component characterization and filter response measurement
• Frequency response testing of analog and mixed-signal circuits
• Production testing and automated calibration workflows
• Educational laboratory demonstrations and circuit validation

## Compatibility & Integration

GPIB programming interface. Floating outputs support isolated measurement environments.